Northern Irish metal outfit Nihilanth return with their blistering new single ‘Don’t Pray For Me’, the follow up to 2024’s crushing release ‘Ruin’. The track is taken from the band’s forthcoming second EP, Detritus Of Ruin, due for release on March 20th.
‘Don’t Pray For Me’ sees Nihilanth leaning further into the darker, more abrasive edges of their sound, channeling death metal intensity through the band’s established groove-laden framework. It is a track built on weight and intent, pairing suffocating heaviness with razor-sharp precision.
‘Don’t Pray For Me’ is available on all major streaming platforms, HERE.
Lyrically, the single is one of the most direct statements the band have made to date. The inspiration stems from a personal experience guitarist Pete Craig had after moving to Belfast, shaping a broader commentary on religious fanaticism and the damage it can inflict across all denominations of faith. While recognising the right to individual belief, the track challenges the imposition of those beliefs on others, particularly when used to incite fear, hostility or division.
‘Don’t Pray For Me’ reflects on how many global conflicts and societal fractures can be traced back to religion or religious persecution. Growing up in Ireland and Northern Ireland, these themes are far from abstract, giving the track a lived-in authenticity that cuts deeper than rhetoric. The result is a bleak but honest examination of how ideology, when weaponised, can bring out the worst in people.
The single sets the tone for Detritus Of Ruin, a record that captures Nihilanth at their most focused and fully realised. Following their 2023 debut EP Destroyer Of Worlds, the band experienced significant line-up changes. Rather than halting progress, that period became a turning point. With the current line-up now firmly established, this EP represents the sound Nihilanth have been driving towards since their inception.
Across the EP, raw aggression is balanced with atmosphere and control. Breakdown sections are delivered with purpose, while subtle layers of synths and strings expand the band’s sonic scope without diluting their core intensity. Themes of self-destruction sit alongside wider societal observations, tackling corruption, prejudice and the influence of organised religion with unflinching honesty.
First single ‘Ruin’ introduced this chapter with a devastating statement of intent, featuring guest vocals from Patrick Scanlon of Belfast hardcore band If It Bleeds. Tracks such as ‘Fractured’ showcase a modern metal edge, while ‘Fangs’ underlines Nihilanth’s refusal to be confined to one lane, blending multiple heavy disciplines into a sound that is unmistakably their own.
Detritus Of Ruin is not a reinvention but a realisation. It is the sound of a band that has weathered change, sharpened its identity and emerged heavier, tighter and more confident than ever.
‘DETRITUS OF RUIN’ tracklist: Ruin The Emergent Truth Fangs Don’t Prey for Me
Nihilanth are: Aidan Thompson, vocals Pete Craig, guitar and backing vocals Lee Park, guitar Andy Parkinson, drums Jim Ward, bass
SACRIVERSUM were formed in 1992 in Łódź (Poland), playing old school Death Metal with progressive elements and atmospheric sounds, making their complex mixture special and unique. Their debut album „The Shadow Of The Golden Fire“ was released in 1994, at a time when a lot of Death Metal bands started to push their boundaries and became more experimental. Their music was a perfect fit along with legendary bands like PESTILENCE,DEATH,GOREFEST & ATHEIST. And this counts for SACRIVERSUM and their upcoming new album „Before The Birth Of Light“ even more.
SACRIVERSUM have released their first single “Let Us Ride The World”:
Stream the Track: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/let-us-ride-the-world
„Before The Birth Of Light“ will be released on May 8th and is available on CD, limited vinyl (300 copies) and digital.
“The entire message of this album can be understood literally and historically, as a depiction of the Viking invasion, but it can also be understood metaphorically, as a representation of the extraordinary strength, dynamism, and unstoppable energy that a well-matched group of people can bring to their actions. The song “Let Us Ride The World” is about what we feel when we create a force together that allows us to conquer the world, simply. This is how not only musicians who enjoy playing together in a band feel, but also everyone who has managed to gather others around them on the basis of “team spirit.” In the lyrics, literally, a band of Vikings addresses Thor, one of the most important deities of that mythology. Today, in modern times, we could say: “We go as a herd, no one can defeat us!”.
The album stands for raw Death Metal, with those incomparable Hammond organs. DEATH meets DEEP PURPLE. Their sound is a mixture of the above mentioned acts and is not too far apart from the latest BLOOD INCANTATION album. Both combine tradition with fiction. You have to hear and experience this Death Metal gem. Since 2022, SACRIVERSUM are back and continue, where they ended up with their debut album. Those nine new tracks on „Before The Birth Of Light“ are possibly the best songs SACRIVERSUM ever composed – once you got into it, they don’t let you go. It is a dark ride into another dimension, another time and another space. You are captured in their own world, in a time before the birth of light.
SACRIVERSUM is: Remigiusz „Remo” Mielczarek – bass, vocals Krystian „MacKozer” Kozerawski – guitar Olaf “Olafsson” Kozerawski – guitar Krzysztof „Baran” Baranowicz – keyboards Jan „Trocin” Traciński – drums
Germany’s Obey The Kraken are back, dragging listeners into the void with their second EP, Apocrypha, out 10th April via Seek & Strike. What began as an unplanned follow up to 2025’s Worship The Sunken God has evolved into a dark, relentless descent into a world where angels fall and hell rises.
First single, ‘Betrayer’, tears open the gates of Obey The Kraken’s mythic world. It’s deathcore stripped to its rawest elements, riffs that hit like falling iron and production built around weight and impact rather than excess.
Commenting on the single, Obey The Kraken said: “‘Betrayer’ marks the opening chapter of the biblical saga that unfolds throughout our EP. The video is fast paced to match the song’s energy and we made the deliberate decision not to visually portray the story itself, as translating it literally would have been difficult and limiting for us. Instead, we stripped it right back to focus on a classic performance video that emphasizes the intensity and drive of the track.”
Apocrypha tells a story in sound, an angel cast from heaven, forging an alliance with hell, returning to challenge the celestial order itself. Every song is a chapter, every breakdown a hammer blow. The EP moves like the story, deliberate and immersive, pulling listeners into Obey The Kraken’s realm where narrative and brutality are inseparable. Nothing is decorative. Nothing is wasted. Every note exists to damage and leave its mark.
The band’s conceptual ambition remains central. Whilst preserving the DNA of their debut, Obey The Kraken push further into uncharted territory. With production carried out entirely in house, leaving the band with full control over how heavy, how clear and how oppressive they needed it to feel. The result is an EP that is heavy and unflinching, a complete assault for fans who crave deathcore that hits as hard thematically as it does musically.
Obey The Kraken add, “Apocrypha means a lot to us, especially as we hadn’t planned this second EP. After finishing our first EP (Worship The Sunken God) last year things developed naturally and we realized we had more to say within this world and sound. We consciously kept the formula of the first EP intact, so anyone who enjoyed EP1 will feel right at home with EP2. Listening back to the final masters, we’re genuinely happy with how consistent and powerful the release feels as a whole. Everything was designed to feel massive, heavy, and epic, supporting the narrative without overcomplicating the production approach.
“Lyrics play a central role for us. Our first EP told the complete story of Cthulhu and his resurrection across four songs and we wanted to apply that same conceptual approach again. On Apocrypha, the songs tell the story of an angel who is cast out of heaven, forms an alliance with hell and ultimately seeks to conquer heaven itself. Each track represents a different chapter of that narrative.”
Track-list:
1. Betrayer 2. Netherworld 3. War Awaits 4. Bow To Darkness
Julien’s Auctions announced details today for its upcoming event in partnership with Gibson Gives, the philanthropic division of Gibson which supports musicians worldwide through music education as well as health and wellness initiatives. The star‑studded sale is the fifth consecutive auction for the organization and funds raised will benefit Gibson Gives & FirstBank Amphitheater Music Education Program. To date the partnership of Julien’s, Gibson Gives, and FirstBank Amphitheater has raised nearly 200K for music education initiatives supporting the next generation of musicians. The event will take place on Thursday, March 5 at 10:00 a.m. PT at juliensauctions.com.
The auction will feature guitars signed by Alice Cooper, Brantley Gilbert, James Taylor, Willie Nelson, Cody Jinks, as well as instruments signed by bands Collective Soul, Daughtry, The Doobie Brothers, Halestorm, Judas Priest, Rise Against, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and more. Proceeds from this sale will directly benefit the Gibson Gives & FirstBank Amphitheater Music Education Program, supporting music education for students in Williamson County Schools in Tennessee.
“Julien’s is excited to partner with Gibson Gives once again to raise funds for their many worthwhile beneficiaries, including the Gibson Gives & FirstBank Amphitheater Music Education Program,” said Martin Nolan, Co‑Founder and Executive Director of Julien’s Auctions. “We are proud to help support the musicians of tomorrow, with help from the musicians of today. This auction of nearly two dozen guitars features some incredible instruments, all signed by renowned artists and bands.”
“At Gibson Gives, we believe the shortest distance from a signed guitar to a student’s first chord is a community that cares,” says Erica Krusen, Executive Director of Gibson Gives. “Partnering with Julien’s Auctions and FirstBank Amphitheater, every winning bid turns star power into school power—putting real instruments and real instruction into classrooms for students in Williamson County. We’re honored by the artists who’ve stepped up and excited for the futures these guitars will help create.”
Pictured (L) The Doobie Brothers signed Gibson Les Paul Standard — (R) Willie Nelson signed Gibson J-45 Acoustic
“Community is at the heart of FirstBank Amphitheater – we strive to be an active force for positive impact,” said Rick and Nancy McEachern, owners of FirstBank Amphitheater. “Through our shared vision and the generosity of Gibson Gives and world-class performers, we are proud to continue investing in the next generation of Williamson County musicians, season after season.”
The Sale Features Guitars from:
Alice Cooper | Signed Gibson L-00 Acoustic Guitar, Ebony
Brantley Gilbert | Signed Gibson SJ-200 Studio Walnut Acoustic Guitar
Cody Jinks | Signed Gibson G-45 Generation Acoustic Guitar, Natural
Volbeat | Band-Signed Gibson SG Standard Electric Guitar, Dark Walnut
Willie Nelson | Signed Gibson J-45 Studio Rosewood Acoustic Guitar, Antique Natural
ONLINE AUCTION “Gibson Gives” Friday, March 5, 2026 10:00 a.m. PST/ 1:00 p.m. EST
REGISTERING TO BID Registration is required to bid in this auction and can be done in person on the day of the auction, or online before the sale at Julien’s Auctions. For inquiries, please email info@juliensauctions.com or call 310-836-1818.
Julien’s Auctions accepts payments with cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, DAI, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin and USD Coin.
About Julien’s Auctions
For the moments that matter. You know that moment when the lights dim, right before your favorite band starts playing? Or that feeling right before the credits roll on a movie that changed your whole world in an instant? The air is charged with anticipation and words are never going to do it justice because you just really had to be there.
At Julien’s Auctions, we exist to bring those moments back into your life through iconic artifacts and one-of-a-kind collections. Whether collaborating directly with artists, partnering with legendary estates, or working closely with discerning collectors, our auctions make culture pop with the promise of discovery and reconnection. From Hollywood legends to fashion icons, our sales celebrate luxury, history, and the stories that define generations.
From Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Ringo Starr to Lady Gaga, Banksy, and Kurt Cobain — from Los Angeles to the world, we are where originals find their kind.
About Gibson Gives
For over 130 years, the iconic and leading American instrument brand Gibsonhas been shaping sound across generations and genres. Gibson, and its charitable non-profit division Gibson Gives, believe in the power of music and that getting instruments into the hands of those with a desire to make music is a life-changing event. Gibson Gives–a 501(c)(3), is committed to making the world a better place by supporting non-profit organizations and developing programs in our efforts to advance musicians through music education, and health and wellness initiatives worldwide. 100% of all donations to and from Gibson Gives go towards giving the gift of music. In the last five years, Gibson Gives has raised over $5.6 million+ and enabled $57.8 million in funding for key organizations through product donations and meaningful giving worldwide. For more information, visit: www.gibsongives.org.
About FirstBank Amphitheater
FirstBank Amphitheater is a world-class boutique amphitheater nestled within a beautiful, wooded, natural stone and park-like setting. Located at the Graystone Quarry in Thompson’s Station at the southern border of Franklin, Tennessee, FirstBank Amphitheater is an iconic location for memorable music experiences for fans and artists. For more information visit: www.firstbankamphitheater.com.
RIAA Platinum certified band DIRTY HEADS return with their new single, “Seven Seas” — a warm, melodic track that blends reggae, hip-hop, and alternative pop, which is the band’s signature style.
The release marks the band’s first new music since the deluxe edition of 2023’s Midnight Control and it continues the focus on connection, resilience, and community.
“Seven Seas” reflects on the importance of showing up for one another during challenging times, pairing laid-back grooves with reflective lyrics. The song underscores the band’s ability to balance feel-good energy with emotional depth, an approach that has remained central to their sound for over two decades.
“It feels like the universe is throwing some heavy waves our way right now,” says singer Jared Watson. “A lot of people close to me, including myself, have been feeling it. But every time I connect with my friends, I’m reminded that no matter what we’re each carrying, there’s always room to support one another. ‘Seven Seas’ is about that bond — being there for your friends and family, through anything.”Formed in 2000, DIRTY HEADS have built a dedicated global following by seamlessly fusing reggae, hip-hop, alternative rock, and pop. Their reach expanded significantly when the platinum-certified single “Vacation” found renewed popularity through viral culture, introducing the band to a new generation of listeners. The group later earned a No. 1 Alternative Radio hit with “Rescue Me,” further solidifying their place in the genre and scene.With over 3 billion career streams worldwide and collaborations spanning artists such as Travis Barker, Nick Hexum, Matisyahu, Slash, and more, DIRTY HEADS continue to evolve — while staying true to the spirit that defines their music. “Seven Seas” signals the beginning of a new chapter, one rooted in connection, optimism, and forward momentum.More music and tour news from Dirty Heads will be announced soon.
DIRTY HEADS ARE: Jared Watson — Vocals Dustin “Duddy B” Bushnell — Vocals + Guitar Jon Olazabal — Percussion Matt Ochoa — Drums Dave Foral — Bass
Bands from all over the world take on classic Black Sabbath and Ozzy solo tracks. No gimmicks, no copies — just the death metal way, giving these immortal songs new life.
A true salute from metalheads to the music that shaped them.
The release date will be announced soon — get ready for the tribute to drop officially on all digital streaming platforms worldwide!
Track list: 1. Pleasure of Mutilate (Ecuador) – Paranoid 2. Transmigration Macabre (Argentina / Uruguay) – Electric Funeral 3. Clairvoyance (Poland) – Sweet Leaf 4. Avulsed (Spain) – Children of the Grave 5. Insineratehymn (USA) – Into the Void 6. Hallucinate (Germany) – Changes 7. Vephar (Poland) – Snowblind 8. Paraphilia (USA) – Cornucopia 9. Podridão (Brazil) – Under the Sun / Every Day Comes and Goes 10. Desekryptor (USA) – Sabbath Bloody Sabbath 11. Flamecore (Greece) – A National Acrobat 12. Pestifer (Portugal) – Killing Yourself to Live 13. Misgivings (France) – Hole in the Sky 14. Becoming the Entity (Mexico) – Symptom of the Universe 15. Bottlekopf (Poland) – Never Say Die 16. Tvmvlo (Portugal) – I Don’t Know 17. Roast Dead (UK) – Crazy Train 18. Imperial Domain (Sweden) – Mr. Crowley 19. Wretched Idol (USA) – Over the Mountain 20. Icons of Blasphemy (Peru) – Believer 21. Hetrem (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – Bark at the Moon 22. Cemetery Filth (USA) – Waiting for Darkness 23. Vastness (Poland) – The Ultimate Sin 24. World Eater (USA) – Shot in the Dark 25. Reckless Manslaughter (Germany) – Demon Alcohol 26. Withering Earth (USA) – No More Tears 27. Slaveson (Austria) – Gets Me Through 28. Rêvasseur (Vietnam) – I Don’t Wanna Stop
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s ASA unveil the long-overdue release of "Collective Failure" + first music video for title-track! Check it out and stay tuned for more news! Click image to watch the video
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
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Visionary artist KIMMO KUUSNIEMI's ANCIENT STREAMING ASSEMBLY (ASA) have released “Aurora Nuclearis”, a powerful 12-minute audiovisual experience, dedicated to the Late Keyboardist Esa Kotilainen. - Click image to watch the video
Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 